Jung Cheong-rae, a member of the Democratic Party, resigned from his position as party leader on the 24th. After visiting Honam to gauge public sentiment, he is expected to officially launch his bid for re-election soon.
During a Supreme Council meeting held at the National Assembly that morning, Jung stated, "I raised the banner of a strong reformist party leader, and none of the initiatives, including the introduction of a member sovereignty party, one-person-one-vote system, prosecution reform, and media reform, were easy. Today, I will step down from the party leadership."
He emphasized, "It has not been easy for a single day due to resistance both inside and outside the party, but I have worked diligently. I will do my utmost as part of a united team for the success of the Lee Jae-myung government." He added, "I will stand at the forefront to uphold my commitment to President Lee, and I will do my best from my position for the success of this government. Even if the path is thorny, I will trust only in public sentiment and party sentiment and continue on my path."
This move is interpreted as a clear indication that Jung is signaling his intention to run for re-election. Previously, he has been active in visiting Honam, leading to speculation that he is trying to secure public support in the region, which is considered a critical battleground for the upcoming party convention.
The Democratic Party has faced several conflicts during the recent local election process, particularly in the Honam region. Former Jeollabuk-do Governor Kim Kwan-young, lawmaker Ahn Ho-young, and Jeollanam-do Governor Kim Yeong-rok have publicly criticized issues arising during the primary process.
Honam is regarded as a key battleground for the party convention. Lawmaker Song Young-gil, who is also mentioned as a potential candidate, has referenced public sentiment in Honam while positioning himself against Jung.
Additionally, Jung has recently expressed a strong stance on the complete abolition of supplementary investigative powers and the one-person-one-vote system. Despite some internal opposition, he has maintained his principles and is asserting his presence within the party.
Meanwhile, with Jung's resignation, the Democratic Party has transitioned to a leadership role under floor leader Han Byeong-do. Jung, Song, and Prime Minister Kim Min-seok are expected to compete for the party leadership in the upcoming elections. There are speculations that Song and Prime Minister Kim may form an alliance to counter Jung.
Internally, tensions have escalated between the pro-Jung faction and the pro-Lee faction. During the meeting, pro-Lee Supreme Council member Kang Deuk-gu expressed dissatisfaction with Jung, prompting pro-Jung Supreme Council member Moon Jeong-bok to respond, "President Lee is the captain of South Korea, and the captain of the Democratic Party is Jung Cheong-rae."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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